District of Columbia Solar Panel Savings Calculator

District of Columbia Solar Panel Savings Overview

District of Columbia receives an average of 4.2 peak sun hours per day, providing a solid foundation for residential solar energy. With electricity rates averaging 15.8¢ per kWh — near the national average — solar offers competitive savings. The typical District of Columbia homeowner with a 6kW system can expect to save approximately $3,200 per year.

Solar Energy Production in District of Columbia

A standard 6kW residential solar panel system in District of Columbia produces approximately 7,358 kWh per year. This accounts for a system efficiency factor of 80%, which includes panel degradation, inverter losses, and temperature effects. While 4.2 peak sun hours is modest compared to sunbelt states, modern high-efficiency panels can still produce meaningful energy savings in District of Columbia.

District of Columbia Electricity Rates and Solar Context

The average residential electricity rate in District of Columbia is 15.8¢ per kWh according to EIA data. This rate is near the national average. Combined with District of Columbia's solar resources, homeowners can expect a payback period of about 5 years. With utility rates increasing annually, your solar savings grow each year.

District of Columbia Solar Incentive Programs

SREC program (among highest value in US, ~$300+/SREC). Federal 30% ITC. Property tax exemption. All District of Columbia residents are eligible for the federal 30% Investment Tax Credit (ITC), which reduces the cost of a solar system by 30% of the total installed price. District of Columbia also offers full retail net metering, allowing homeowners to earn credits for excess solar energy sent back to the grid.

Net Metering in District of Columbia

District of Columbia has full retail net metering, which is a significant financial benefit for solar homeowners. Under full retail net metering, you receive credit at the full retail electricity rate for every kilowatt-hour of excess solar energy you export to the grid. This is the most favorable policy for solar homeowners.

Best Cities for Solar in District of Columbia

The best cities for solar panels in District of Columbia include Washington DC, Georgetown, Capitol Hill, Dupont Circle, Adams Morgan. Solar production can vary by location within the state due to differences in cloud cover, local shading, and microclimates. Southern-facing roofs with minimal shading produce the most energy. Homeowners in Washington DC and Georgetown can typically expect production close to the state average of 4.2 peak sun hours per day.

How District of Columbia Compares to Neighboring States

Compared to neighboring states, District of Columbia (15.8¢/kWh, 4.2 sun hours) has comparable sun exposure and has similar electricity rates. See how solar savings compare in Maryland, and Virginia.